Telangana: Vanajeevi Ramaiah, India’s “Tree Man”, Passes Away

Khammam, 12 April (www.deccanlive.com): Famous environmentalist and social worker Vanajeevi Ramaiah has passed away at the age of 85. He was suffering from health issues for some time and died of a heart attack early Saturday morning while receiving treatment in a government hospital.

Ramaiah, known for his deep love for nature, spent his entire life planting trees. He is believed to have planted over one crore (10 million) trees across different parts of Telangana. For his contribution to the environment, the Government of India awarded him the Padma Shri.

Humble Beginnings and Love for Plants

Ramaiah was born in Muthagudem village, in the Khammam rural area. He studied only up to class five. It was during school that his teacher, Mallesh Sir, taught him about trees and their importance, which inspired him deeply.

Later, his family moved to Reddypally for farming. Motivated by his school lessons, he planted trees even on his home land, leaving only space for the house and using the rest for greenery.

For decades, he planted trees along roadsides, in government offices, private lands, temples, and any open land he could find. Professionally, he used to make clay pots and sell milk. But his passion remained nature and tree planting.

Naming Grandchildren After Trees

Ramaiah’s love for trees was so strong that he named his grandchildren after plants and flowers. One granddaughter is named Chandanapushpa (sandalwood flower), another Haritha Lavanya (green beauty), and one child is named Kabandhapushpa (a flower), and another Vanashree (goddess of forest).

A Tireless Environmental Warrior

Even in old age, Ramaiah would spend a lot of time in the forests during summer, collecting different types of seeds, especially of rare trees. He would store these seeds at home in bags and distribute them to others for planting.

When the first rains arrived, he would start planting trees immediately. Not only did he plant trees himself, but he also gave seeds to others and encouraged them to plant. Even when attending weddings or family events, he would give plants and seeds as gifts.

One time, after being hit by a vehicle in an accident, instead of punishing the driver, Ramaiah requested the police to ask the driver to plant 100 trees as a way of making up for the mistake.

He even submitted a request to the BRS government to start a “Haritha Bandhu” (Green Friend) scheme, just like Rythu Bandhu (for farmers) and Dalitha Bandhu (for Dalit welfare), to support people planting trees.

CM Revanth and Other Leaders Mourn the Death of Vanajeevi Ramaiah

Many important people, including Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, have expressed their sadness over the death of Padma Shri awardee Vanajeevi Ramaiah. The CM said, “Ramaiah strongly believed that without nature and environment, human life cannot survive. Starting as one man planting trees, he later inspired an entire society. His death is a big loss to all of us. I offer my deep condolences to his family.”

The CM also said, “Ramaiah devoted his life to protecting nature and the environment. His life and message are an inspiration to today’s youth.”

Creative Ways of Spreading Green Awareness

Ramaiah was very creative in spreading his message of greenery. He used broken plastic chairs, tubs, containers, and rings to create awareness tools. He painted these items using his own money and wore them on his head like banners.

No matter where he went, he spread awareness about tree planting. He became known across the country for this unique style. He often carried signboards saying “Vriksho Rakshati Rakshitaha” (He who protects trees, is protected by them). If you asked him, he could easily tell the names and details of 120 types of trees.

Awards and Achievements of Ramaiah

Ramaiah, who planted over 1 crore (10 million) trees, became famous as the Tree Man of India. Many organizations honored his work:

• In 2005, he received the Vanamitra Award from the Centre for Media Services.
• An international group called Universal Global Peace gave him an Honorary Doctorate.
• In 1995, the Government of India awarded him the Vanaseva Award.
• Sakshi Media also honored him with the Sakshi Excellence Award.

Ramaiah’s Life Included in School Textbooks

The Maharashtra government included Ramaiah’s life story in their school curriculum. In 9th class Telugu textbooks, his journey is taught to Telugu-speaking students.

Also, in Telangana, students of 6th class Social Studies learn about Ramaiah’s environmental work. His life is now part of education, to inspire future generations.